UFC Releases Nakamura

In an expected move in light of the number of released fighters as of late, according to Sam Caplan of FiveOuncesOfPain.com and confirmed by The Wrestling Observer, the UFC has released light heavyweight Kazuhiro Nakamura; the decision was made shortly after Nakamura’s loss to Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou at UFC 84. Nakamura made his debut at UFC 76 where he lost to Lyoto Machida in an unanimous decision; shortly thereafter, the California State Athletic Commission announced it was finingand suspending Nakamura due to marijuana showing up during a post-fight drug screening; he attempted to appeal but was unsuccessful.

As of this writing, it is unclear as to where Nakamura will fight next; certainly other promotions, such as Strikeforce, DREAM, Sengoku and EliteXC will take a look at Nakamura as the aforementioned promotions have a demand for light heavyweights at any given time.